Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) crews have stabilized a dangerous heat build-up at a thermal energy storage plant at Tomago, in the state's Hunter Valley.
Crews were called to the facility in Laverick Avenue just after 5.15 this morning. Three employees made it to safety as authorities established an 800m exclusion zone and evacuated 15 neighboring businesses.
Bulk Carbon Dioxide Tanker
Firefighters called in a Bulk Carbon Dioxide Tanker from Sydney as they sprayed CO2 onto the 14x3m over-heated machinery. They were prevented from using water to cool the machinery due to the risk of explosion. Crews also used dry chemical powder extinguishers to douse burning electrical cables at the site.
The scene has now been deemed to be in a steady state, and the emergency has been scaled down. A FRNSW Hazardous Materials (HAZMAT) crew will remain at the scene for the next day or two to monitor the situation.
